A Buyer’s Guide for the Best Firepit for This Summer

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Firepit For Summer — Alpine Gas Fireplaces

Getting a firepit is often one of the best decisions you can make. Besides its versatility, it offers different fuel options, it’s great for parties, and it adds coziness to
any space, small or large. But before you purchase yours, read through this guide on five things to consider before getting a firepit. 

1. Local Regulations

First off, check in with your local authorities about the city’s building codes to inquire about outdoor firepit placement regulations. Also, learn about the safety
restrictions regarding fuel types, precisely on burning wood. If you live in an apartment, condo, or community home, check in with your homeowner or building association.

Different cities and counties will have various regulations, but common ones will often include the following:

  • You need at least 10 feet distance between the firepit and buildings or fences.
  • You need a local fire marshal to do site inspections.
  • You might have fuel type restrictions such as no wood-burning or strictly smoke-free options.

2. Firepit Functionality

The function of your firepit is also crucial. Firepits will keep you warm and lighten the mood, especially when entertaining guests. But it can also cook, grill, and roast.
Considering such functions, you should look into three things.

Style

A cauldron-style firepit would often be best for grilling, whereas table designs might be best for entertainment and ambiance. Moreover, styling allows you to add more
features such as glass edges, masonry, and mesh covers.

Size

Firepits can range from as small as 24 inches in diameter to 58 inches across. The height, too, can vary from low firepit bowls set on the ground to taller structures, with
a standard seat height of 18 inches. 

Portability

The size may dictate portability, seeing as smaller bowl firepits are lightweight and allow for movement. However, depending on what you want, you can choose to build a
permanent firepit or purchase a movable one. Permanent types are best for your backyard, while portable ones would be excellent for renters.

3. Fuel Options

You can use three types of fuel: wood, gas or propane, and gel. Wood-burning firepits are a classic as they have a high heat output. However, they produce air-polluting
smoke, ash, and sparks, which are hazardous to the environment and can be a problem for your neighbors.

As for gas or propane, they’re environmentally safe since they’re smoke-free and are readily available. Both fuel options can have flame and heat regulators and can burn for
long hours. 

Gel fuel is smoke-free, doesn’t produce soot, and is easy to ignite. Unfortunately, gel fuel is expensive and emits an unpleasant odor as it burns. Moreover, some gel fires
may crackle like with wood-burning firepits and the heat emitted is minimal.

4. Material

You can get a firepit in various materials. You have the option of stone, concrete, metal, or a combination of materials. Your choice will depend on your taste and home
design. As you decide, note the following:

  • Natural stone and concrete are the most durable, but they can easily stain and give off too much heat.
  • Metal is sturdy but gets hot.
  • Other materials like sandstone may need a professional to install.

5. Cost

Lastly, your budget is just as vital as these other four factors. And because of how versatile this outdoor fire feature is, its price equally varies. Freestanding firepits
made with basic materials like stone or concrete can cost hundreds of dollars. However, custom-built and built-in styles can be way more expensive.

Spruce up your outdoor entertainment space with a classy firepit. Using these five considerations above, you can easily make the right choice or better yet, call us today for your in-home consultations. Let us install a beautiful firepit in your home.

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